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Dubai Duty Free

Sales at Dubai Duty Free continued their upward trend in the first quarter of 2006 as turnover reached Dh571 million (US$159 million) representing a 12 per cent increase over the same period last year and paving the way for a new record year. Commenting on the first quarter figures, Colm McLoughlin, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free said, "We have had a busy first few months of the year and are pleased to see that our sales reflect that. We have undertaken a series of renovations in the past few weeks and have more planned in the coming months, all of which will improve the retail offer further."

HOUSEHOLD SHOP
Included in the changes is the opening of a new household shop, incorporating soft furnishings and home appliances. "The household shop is a new direction and we believe there is a demand for this category," added Mr. McLoughlin. "We have also redesigned the precious stones shop and built a new gadget shop, both of which are doing well."
In the first quarter, significant sales increases were recorded in the perfumes and cosmetics category, which rose to Dh94 million (US$26 million), representing a 28 per cent increase over last year. Sales in the New Arrivals Duty Free, which is double the size of the former outlet, rose to Dh49 million (US$14 million), reflecting a 25 per cent increase.
In the coming months, the electronics shop, that currently accounts for around nine per cent of sales, will be revamped to include a new 'Sound & Vision and Games' area, a new camcorder area and a new music shop.
With the opening in 2007 of Concourse Two, the retail area will increase by a further 10,000 square meters.

Dubai Duty Free


GREATER TRAFFIC FLOW AND NEW PLANS
Passenger numbers increased by +14.4 per cent in the first quarter to 6.9 million, while aircraft movements were up by +10.2 per cent. Passenger numbers have grown by +17.1 per cent in January, +10.9 per cent in February and by +14.8 per cent in March.
The retailer is well advanced in the plans to use 8,000-10,000sq m of space in the new Concourse 2 that will open in early 2007. The Concourse will be dedicated to fast-expanding national carrier Emirates. Additionally a further 1,400sq m of retail space is being planned for T2. And in Concourse 3 that will handle the A-380, another 5.000sq m of retail is planned. That facility should open in 2009.
Most significantly, Dubai Duty Free will also run the retail at Jebel Ali International Airport that is expected to operate its first flights by the end of 2007. These will initially be executive jet and freight services and possibly some tow cost carriers but in time it will become a major scheduled services international airport. Dubai Duty Free will open around 2,500sq ft of retail initially, growing later in line with the airport.


(Source - Retail News: Middle East & Africa June 2006)

 

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